Going to Rome without visiting the Altar of the fatherland is shaming. It is like eating pizza margherita without tomato sauce. So, the Altar of the Fatherland is a must to visit when going to Rome, Italy. Certainly, it has the charm, beauty, and the whole dignity of Rome, Italy.
The Altar of the Fatherland is a symbolic centre of the Vittoriano, with the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in the middle. The Victor Emmanuel II National Monument or Vittoriano called Altare della Patria in Italian. Vittoriano is a national monument built in honour of Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of Unified Italy. The building is built to celebrate the greatness of Rome, the capital of Italy, and to commemorate the unification of Italy into a single nation. The monument is sited in Rome, Italy. It occupies a plot between the Piazza Venezia and the Capitoline Hill. They started the construction in the year 1885 with an 81-meter height.

A Visit to Altar of the Fatherland, Rome Italy
Firstly, I can say that this is not the right time to visit the Altar of the Fatherland. Some parts of the marbled monument are closed due to the covid19 pandemic restrictions. However, you can still enjoy some views and appreciate its beauty.
October 20, 2020, I visited once again the Vittoriano. As expected, there was a queue to enter. This is to monitor the number of people inside due to social distancing regulation. Upon entering, a guide will instruct you on some necessary instructions that everyone has to follow. For example, wearing masks at all times, not crossing to the forbidden areas, and having temperature temp once arrived on the second stairs.
Upon entering, half of the stairs is closed, I saw the 2 soldiers guarding the tomb. I also witnessed how they changed the soldiers. It is really overwhelming how they care, respect, and protect the altar.
So, I had my temperature checked, went up to the marbled stairs where the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier- Tomba del Milite Ignoto in Italian. I counted the number of steps. It was 196 total steps to arrive there. It was spectacular. Not only the marbled monument but also the view of the city. I went up at around six in the evening. I witnessed a beautiful sunset. It was spectacular.
I didn’t go up with the lift any longer because I didn’t have much time. Well, there is always tomorrow, right?
The tomb of the unknown soldier- Vittoriano. The Tomb of the unknown Soldier in Vittoriano, Altar of the Fatherland, Rome,
Italy.
Altar of the Fatherland Tickets and Schedules
To visit the terrace of the Altar if the Fatherland has corresponding fees. However, fees are not the same. At the back of the Monument, there is a bar where you can enjoy the amazing views of the city, Colosseum, and Roman Forum while sipping some drinks. In addition, at the back, you can also see the panoramic lift to climb up to the 360 views of the city. Yes, absolutely 360. For climbing up and enjoying the terrace, you have to pay.
Beside the lift, the ticket booth is located.
PRICE AND FEES:
- Full entrance: €7,00
- Reduced entrance: €3,50 (from 10 to 18 years old)
- Free Entrance: + €2 Reservation Fee for online booking
Apply to: for kids under 10 years old and people with disabilities
OPENING HOURS:
Closed
1 January, 1 May, and 25 December
Opening Hours
The Altar of the Fatherland is open every day from 9.30 am to 7.30 pm.
Lifetime Traveller’s Note:
The last admission is 1 hour before closing time (6.30 pm). Moreover, the gates of the main entrance in Piazza Venezia close at 4.00 pm while wintertime and at 5.00 pm during the summer. Time and schedules may change due to the Covid19 pandemic.
In conclusion, the Monumento Nazionale a Vittorio Emanuele II is one of the most eye-catching and charming buildings in the Eternal city. Its majestic dimensions and the glimpse of the sun reflected on its white marble make it the subject of tons of photographs taken by tourists each day.
Spending your 30 minutes of time is worth it. This is to say, you wont be disappointed. Trust me. It is an honour to see and witness the Rome’s pride, Altar of the Fatherland! So, plan your visit in advance and have fun!

Hi! It’s me! I am a hospitality professional and a part-time blogger! I am a travel dreamer and world conqueror based in Rome, Italy.
I miss Roma. It’s a shame I just saw this from afar.
No worries. Rome is just waiting for you.